SERVING FELLOWSHIP NEXT WEEK: C. Verage & K. Ikenberry

THIS WEEK:
Today – Council Meeting following Bible Study
Mon & Tues – ACELC Conference

CALENDAR UPDATE: Because of the parking lot project, there will be no Wednesday Bible study, Vespers, or table talk for the month of June. Also, no Matins or confessions study this month.
 
PARKING LOT: Construction has started on the parking lot. Please use caution when navigating the area. Grab a sheet on your way out that explains the parking procedures or view the document here. Follow this link to request a shuttle ride from the Fareway parking lot to church, or to volunteer as a shuttle driver.

SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSROOMS: Mrs. Ikenberry's Sunday School class (preschool and kindergarten age) has moved to the middle classroom of the education wing. The nursery room will be available for mothers, toddlers, and infants to use as needed.
 
SCRIP GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE: There are a limited number of Caseys, Fareway, Dairy Queen, Jimmy Johns, KwikStar/Trip and Home Depot cards. These were purchased through the scrip program which will help pay for the parking lot. See Kathryn Feldt for Details. We can accept checks, Apple pay and cash.

THURSDAY NIGHT APOLOGETICS: On select Thursdays this summer, a group will be meeting to discuss Fisk’s book, Without Flesh. The target age for this group is upper confirmation/ high school, but all are welcome to attend. The next meeting is Thursday, June 18th at 4:30pm in the fellowship hall, discussing chapters 4-7.

IOWA MARCH FOR LIFE: Join your LCMS brothers and sisters at Trinity Lutheran Church in Des Moines at 9 AM on Saturday, June 20th for the Iowa March for Life. We will begin with praying Matins (with President Paul Egger preaching), hear Mr. Martin Cannon speak, and share a lunch together before heading to the Iowa State Capital for a rally and the march. The entire event should conclude around 2:30/2:45. Please RSVP for adequate food preparations to pastorckroonblawd@gmail.com.
 
YOU’RE INVITED: to a hymn festival celebrating the centennial of Redeemer Lutheran Church in Marshalltown. It will be held on Sunday, June 21st at 4pm with a meal to follow.
 
ALTAR FLOWERS: The Altar Guild would like to put out fresh flower arrangements for special feast days in the church. Mark "Altar Flowers" in the memo line of your check or donate online Serve>Give>Vanco>Altar Flowers. The signup sheet is in the narthex.

EXPERT GUESTS, EXPANSIVE TOPICS, EXTOLLING CHRIST: Issues, Etc. is a podcast and radio talk show produced by Lutheran Public Radio in Collinsville, IL and hosted by LCMS Pastor Todd Wilken. Recent subjects include: The Tragedy of Islam, Purgatory, An Update on the Legal Battle Between the LCMS & Concordia University Texas, Declining Public School Enrollment, Children’s Right’s & Same Sex Marriage and more. You can listen at your convenience at issuesetc.org.

Construction on the parking lot has begun. Please navigate the area carefully. Review your options for Sunday morning parking here. The document has been updated to include street parking options. 

SERVING FELLOWSHIP NEXT WEEK: S. Schumacher & K. Palma

TODAY FOLLOWING BIBLE STUDY:
- Ladies Guild yarn exchange & planning meeting
- Lego Extravaganza

CALENDAR UPDATE: Because of the parking lot project, there will be no Wednesday Bible study, Vespers, or table talk for the month of June. Also, no Matins or confessions study this month.

PARKING LOT: Construction has started on the parking lot. Please use caution when navigating the area. Grab a sheet on your way out that explains the parking procedures or view the document here. Follow this link to request a shuttle ride from the Fareway parking lot to church, or to volunteer as a shuttle driver.

SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSROOMS: Mrs. Ikenberry's Sunday School class (preschool and kindergarten age) has moved to the middle classroom of the education wing.  The nursery room will be available for mothers, toddlers, and infants to use as needed.

SCRIP GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE: There are a limited number of Caseys, Fareway, Dairy Queen, Jimmy Johns, KwikStar/Trip and Home Depot cards. These were purchased through the scrip program which will help pay for the parking lot. See Kathryn Feldt for Details. We can accept checks, Apple pay and cash.

THURSDAY NIGHT APOLOGETICS: On select Thursdays this summer, a group will be meeting to discuss Fisk’s book, Without Flesh. The target age for this group is upper confirmation/ high school, but all are welcome to attend. The next meeting is Thursday, June 18th at 4:30pm in the fellowship hall, discussing chapters 4-7.

IOWA MARCH FOR LIFE: Join your LCMS brothers and sisters at Trinity Lutheran Church in Des Moines at 9 AM on Saturday, June 20th for the Iowa March for Life. We will begin with praying Matins (with President Paul Egger preaching), hear Mr. Martin Cannon speak, and share a lunch together before heading to the Iowa State Capital for a rally and the march. The entire event should conclude around 2:30/2:45. Please RSVP for adequate food preparations to pastorckroonblawd@gmail.com.

YOU’RE INVITED: to a hymn festival celebrating the centennial of Redeemer Lutheran Church in Marshalltown. It will be held on Sunday, June 21st at 4pm with a meal to follow.

ALTAR FLOWERS: The Altar Guild would like to put out fresh flower arrangements for special feast days in the church. Mark "Altar Flowers" in the memo line of your check or donate online Serve>Give>Vanco>Altar Flowers. The signup sheet is in the narthex.

ESSENTIAL EXERCISE FOR THE CHRISTIAN MIND: Issues, Etc. is a podcast and radio talk show produced by Lutheran Public Radio in Collinsville, IL and hosted by LCMS Pastor Todd Wilken.  Recent topics include: A Lutheran View of Psychiatry, The Crusades, Roman Catholicism on Faith, The Comfort of Lutheran Doctrine, Pro-Life Feminism and more. You can listen on-demand at issuesetc.org.

Outdoors by JK will be starting work on June 2nd. After the parking lot is poured, we will need to wait 4+ weeks to drive on it. During that time, here is our parking plan.

To sign up for a shuttle ride, or to volunteer as a shuttle driver, please fill out this form.

SERVING FELLOWSHIP NEXT WEEK: S. Schumacher & K. Palma

COMING UP:
Next Sunday – Special Voters Meeting for transfers
- Ladies Guild yarn exchange & planning meeting
- Lego Extravaganza

SPECIAL VOTERS MEETING: A special voters meeting will be held on June 7th to address some transfers.

SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSROOMS: Mrs. Ikenberry's Sunday School class (preschool and kindergarten age) has moved to the middle classroom of the education wing.  The nursery room will be available for mothers, toddlers, and infants to use as needed.

PARKING LOT: Construction is starting on the parking lot. Please use caution when navigating the area. Lights have been installed. Demolition work may begin as early as tomorrow, June 1. Grab a sheet on your way out that explains the parking procedures or view the document here. Follow this link to request a shuttle ride from the Fareway parking lot to church, or to volunteer as a shuttle driver.

SCRIP GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE: There are a limited number of Caseys, Fareway, Dairy Queen, Jimmy Johns, KwikStar/Trip and Home Depot cards. These were purchased through the scrip program which will help pay for the parking lot. See Kathryn Feldt for Details. We can accept checks, Apple pay and cash.

IOWA MARCH FOR LIFE: Join your LCMS brothers and sisters at Trinity Lutheran Church in Des Moines at 9 AM on Saturday, June 20th for the Iowa March for Life. We will begin with praying Matins (with President Paul Egger preaching), hear Mr. Martin Cannon speak, and share a lunch together before heading to the Iowa State Capital for a rally and the march. The entire event should conclude around 2:30/2:45. Please RSVP for adequate food preparations to pastorckroonblawd@gmail.com.

YOU’RE INVITED: to a hymn festival celebrating the centennial of Redeemer Lutheran Church in Marshalltown. It will be held on Sunday, June 21st at 4pm with a meal to follow.

SINGLES RETREAT AT OKOBOJI: The fourth annual Lutheran singles retreat at Camp Okoboji will be held August 21-23. Ages 21-41 are invited. Registration cost is $100 and you can register at faithwinterset.org. Contact KeithLCMS@gmail.com with questions.

CHURCH MOWING: If you would like to help with mowing the church yard this year, contact Mark Selby or Cal Lundberg. Thanks, Board of Properties.

ALTAR FLOWERS: The Altar Guild would like to put out fresh flower arrangements for special feast days in the church. Mark "Altar Flowers" in the memo line of your check or donate online Serve>Give>Vanco>Altar Flowers. The signup sheet is in the narthex.

The lights have been installed and will be inspected soon. Demolition work for the parking lot could begin as soon as Monday, June 1. Parking this Sunday functions as normal. Stay tuned for more information about how parking will work during construction.

SERVING FELLOWSHIP NEXT WEEK: K. Dee & E. Urban

COMING UP:
June 7th – Special Voters Meeting for transfers
- Ladies Guild yarn exchange & planning meeting
- Lego Extravaganza

SPECIAL VOTERS MEETING: A special voters meeting will be held on June 7th to address some transfers.

CAUTION: Construction is starting on the parking lot. Please use caution when navigating the area. Watch emails and announcements for more information on where to park during construction.

TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH'S 125TH ANNIVERSARY: You are invited to our grand Anniversary Celebration on Sunday June 7th, 2026!  A special recognition church service will be held at 10:00am with a meal and program following. The event will feature special guests, worship, and a program. Come give thanks to God with us for 125 years of the Lord's blessings!

MARCH FOR LIFE: All members of IDW congregations are invited to participate in the Iowa March for Life on Saturday, June 20. The day begins at Trinity Lutheran Church in Des Moines (3223 University Ave.) with a Matins Prayer Service at 9:00 a.m., followed by worship at 10:00 a.m. A lunch will be served at 11:00 a.m. After lunch, participants will travel to the Iowa State Capitol for the March, beginning at noon. All are encouraged to come, pray, worship, and walk together as witnesses for life.

YOU’RE INVITED: to a hymn festival celebrating the centennial of Redeemer Lutheran Church in Marshalltown. It will be held on Sunday, June 21st at 4pm with a meal to follow.

SINGLES RETREAT AT OKOBOJI: The fourth annual Lutheran singles retreat at Camp Okoboji will be held August 21-23. Ages 21-41 are invited. Registration cost is $100 and you can register at faithwinterset.org. Contact KeithLCMS@gmail.com with questions.

CHURCH MOWING: If you would like to help with mowing the church yard this year, contact Mark Selby or Cal Lundberg. Thanks, Board of Properties.

ALTAR FLOWERS: The Altar Guild would like to put out fresh flower arrangements for special feast days in the church. Mark "Altar Flowers" in the memo line of your check or donate online Serve>Give>Vanco>Altar Flowers. The signup sheet is in the narthex.

UNDERSTANDING DIFFICULT OLD TESTAMENT PASSAGES: Was the universe really created in six days?  Why did men live so long?  What about all the violence in the Old Testament?  Do Old Testament prophets predict current events?  You’ll find answers to these questions in interviews with Doctor Reed Lessing and Doctor Andrew Steinmann, co-authors of the new book “Wrestling with God.”  You can listen at your convenience at issuesetc.org/wrestlingwithgod.

During Bible Study, Pastor Siegel discussed following resources.

• Issues, Etc.'s 6-part series Worship, Adiaphora, and the Lutheran Confessions
• 2026 LCMS 69th Convention Workbook (via LCMS Document library) - highlighted a sampling of the resolutions the upcoming synodical convention. The conference workbook overtures may be viewed at the attached link.

SERVING FELLOWSHIP NEXT WEEK: G. Siegel & A. Rees

THIS WEEK:
No Wednesday Bible studies or Vespers.

SPECIAL VOTERS MEETING: A special voters meeting will be held on June 7th to address some transfers.

TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH'S 125TH ANNIVERSARY: You are invited to our grand Anniversary Celebration on Sunday June 7th, 2026!  A special recognition church service will be held at 10:00am with a meal and program following. The event will feature special guests, worship, and a program. Come give thanks to God with us for 125 years of the Lord's blessings!

MARCH FOR LIFE: All members of IDW congregations are invited to participate in the Iowa March for Life on Saturday, June 20. The day begins at Trinity Lutheran Church in Des Moines (3223 University Ave.) with a Matins Prayer Service at 9:00 a.m., followed by worship at 10:00 a.m. A lunch will be served at 11:00 a.m. After lunch, participants will travel to the Iowa State Capitol for the March, beginning at noon. All are encouraged to come, pray, worship, and walk together as witnesses for life.

YOU’RE INVITED: to a hymn festival celebrating the centennial of Redeemer Lutheran Church in Marshalltown. It will be held on Sunday, June 21st at 4pm with a meal to follow.

SINGLES RETREAT AT OKOBOJI: The fourth annual Lutheran singles retreat at Camp Okoboji will be held August 21-23. Ages 21-41 are invited. Registration cost is $100 and you can register at faithwinterset.org. Contact KeithLCMS@gmail.com with questions.

THANK YOU: for your patience as I adjust my routine after the birth of Eve. I apologize for any misprints, delays, or missing handouts during this time. Thank you to all who have helped fill in in my absence. – Allison Doying, Office Secretary

ALTAR FLOWERS: The Altar Guild would like to put out fresh flower arrangements for special feast days in the church. Mark "Altar Flowers" in the memo line of your check or donate online Serve>Give>Vanco>Altar Flowers. The signup sheet is in the narthex.

UNDERSTANDING DIFFICULT OLD TESTAMENT PASSAGES: Was the universe really created in six days?  Why did men live so long?  What about all the violence in the Old Testament?  Do Old Testament prophets predict current events?  You’ll find answers to these questions in interviews with Doctor Reed Lessing and Doctor Andrew Steinmann, co-authors of the new book “Wrestling with God.”  You can listen at your convenience at issuesetc.org/wrestlingwithgod.

Please do not move the stakes in the parking lot as they are marking the light pole locations. Lights are hopefully getting installed this week. 

SERVING FELLOWSHIP NEXT WEEK: A. Friedrichs & A. Rees

YOU’RE INVITED: to Redeemer Lutheran Church in Marshalltown for a meal and their Ascension Eve service on Thursday, May 14th (not May 13th). The meal begins at 5 PM with the service starting at 7 PM. There will be choir, brass, and organ accompaniment for the service. Rehearsals for choir and brass are at 6 PM.

SENIOR ORGAN RECITAL: The members of Holy Cross are invited to attend the Senior Organ Recital of Joshua Feldt on Tuesday, May 12th at 7:30 pm. The Recital will take place at Voxman music building at the University of Iowa. If you are unable to attend, it will also be live streamed through the University of Iowa music website.

TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH'S 125TH ANNIVERSARY: You are invited to our grand Anniversary Celebration on Sunday June 7th, 2026!  A special recognition church service will be held at 10:00am with a meal and program following. The event will feature special guests, worship, and a program. Come give thanks to God with us for 125 years of the Lord's blessings! RSVP for this event by phone (515-279-3609), email (trinityofficedsm@gmailcom), or online.

MARCH FOR LIFE: All members of IDW congregations are invited to participate in the Iowa March for Life on Saturday, June 20. The day begins at Trinity Lutheran Church in Des Moines (3223 University Ave.) with a Matins Prayer Service at 9:00 a.m., followed by worship at 10:00 a.m. A lunch will be served at 11:00 a.m. After lunch, participants will travel to the Iowa State Capitol for the March, beginning at noon. All are encouraged to come, pray, worship, and walk together as witnesses for life.

SINGLES RETREAT AT OKOBOJI: The fourth annual Lutheran singles retreat at Camp Okoboji will be held August 21-23. Ages 21-41 are invited. Registration cost is $100 and you can register at faithwinterset.org. Contact KeithLCMS@gmail.com with questions.

MOWING: Spring is upon us. If you would like to help with mowing the church yard this year, contact Mark Selby or Cal Lundberg. Thanks, Board of Properties.

THANK YOU: for your patience as I adjust my routine after the birth of Eve. I apologize for any misprints, delays, or missing handouts during this time. Thank you to all who have helped fill in in my absence. – Allison Doying, Office Secretary

PREMIER CONFERENCE FOR LUTHERAN LAITY: You’re invited to attend the 2026 Issues, Etc. “Making the Case” Conference, June 12 & 13, at Concordia University Chicago. Speakers include: Mollie Hemingway of The Federalist, LCMS President Matt Harrison, Megan Basham of The Daily Wire, Pastor Will Weedon of The Word of the Lord Endures Forever, Erin Hawley of Alliance Defending Freedom and YouTuber Pastor Bryan Wolfmueller. Registration is $160 and includes three meals. For more information, visit issuesetc.org or call (618) 223-8385.

Please pray for Ken Brown and family at the death of his wife, Pauline.

Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?" (John 11:25-26)

Visitation for Pauline is scheduled for Thursday night from 5-8 pm.  Funeral will be at the church at 10:30 am on Friday, followed by a luncheon. The internment will be at Sunset Gardens at 1:00 pm.  
 
Christ is risen! He is risen, indeed!  Alleluia!
Obituary at Peterson Funeral Services

During Bible Study, Pastor discussed following articles highlighting the upcoming synodical convention. The conference workbook overtures may be viewed at the attached link

• 2026 LCMS 69th Convention Workbook (via LCMS Document library)

SERVING FELLOWSHIP NEXT WEEK: Board of Ed./Stewardship

COMING UP:
May 1 – Confirmation Questioning
May 3 – Confirmation Sunday
May 4&5 – Pastor’s Conference
May 9 – Homeschool Conference
May 10 – Council Meeting

TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH'S 125TH ANNIVERSARY: You are invited to our grand Anniversary Celebration on Sunday June 7th, 2026!  A special recognition church service will be held at 10:00am with a meal and program following. The event will feature special guests, worship, and a program. Come give thanks to God with us for 125 years of the Lord's blessings!

MARCH FOR LIFE: All members of IDW congregations are invited to participate in the Iowa March for Life on Saturday, June 20. The day begins at Trinity Lutheran Church in Des Moines (3223 University Ave.) with a Matins Prayer Service at 9:00 a.m., followed by worship at 10:00 a.m. A lunch will be served at 11:00 a.m. After lunch, participants will travel to the Iowa State Capitol for the March, beginning at noon. All are encouraged to come, pray, worship, and walk together as witnesses for life.

FURNITURE PURGE: The Board of Education is removing some furniture from the classrooms (chairs, table, cabinet, bench). Furniture is located in the middle classroom and marked with a painter’s tape 'X'.  It is available for members to take before May 3.  After that time, it will be donated or placed on the curb for Carlisle clean-up week. Talk to Kathy Dee with any questions.

MOWING: Spring is upon us. If you would like to help with mowing the church yard this year, contact Mark Selby or Cal Lundberg. Thanks, Board of Properties.

APRIL SHOWERS: In honor of the gift of new life God bestows on His people, we are celebrating with April Showers, both in our community and congregation.
1.Bring baby supplies to the church to support Aggie’s Closet and the life affirming work at Guiding Star pregnancy center in Marshalltown. (Suggested donations: Diapers, wipes, onesies, diaper cream, bottles, pacifiers, teethers, baby wash, etc)
2.Write a note of encouragement to one of the new and expecting moms in our congregation and place it in the corresponding manila envelope. If you would like to write a note to another mom in the congregation, make sure it is labeled and it will be delivered to them!

CCA FOOD PANTRY: The CCA Food Pantry is currently serving 13+ families in the PEACH (Palmyra, Easter Lake, Avon Lake, Carlisle, Hartford) area.  The food pantry is open on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month and anyone in the PEACH area can fill 2-4 bags with food, plus paper goods and bathroom items.  Holy Cross has been the location for the CCA food pantry since the 1980's.  Check the list posted on the Food Pantry door for immediate donation needs.  Please ask Kathy Dee if there are any questions or for opportunities to get involved.  

WEEKLY BACH CANTATAS: Lutheran Public Radio streams an appointed Bach Cantata uninterrupted at 1 pm and 8 p.m. Central on Sundays.  This week’s cantata will be BWV 103 “You Will Weep and Wail.”  You can listen at lutheranpublicradio.org.

SERVING FELLOWSHIP NEXT WEEK: K. Eubanks & A. Rees

TODAY: from 12:30-4pm is the annual food sorting for the CCA Food Pantry. The Boy Scouts canvas the towns in the PEACH area for food donations and a group of Holy Cross (and other family and friend) volunteers spend a few hours sorting the food by date and getting it organized on the shelves to serve the community for the next year. We appreciate everyone who has helped in the past and look forward to doing it again this year. All ages are welcome! Feel free to come and go as you are able. Please ask Kathy Dee if there are any questions.
 
FURNITURE PURGE: The Board of Education is removing some furniture from the classrooms (chairs, table, cabinet, bench). Furniture is located in the middle classroom and marked with a painter’s tape 'X'. It is available for members to take before May 3. After that time, it will be donated or placed on the curb for Carlisle clean-up week. Talk to Kathy Dee with any questions.
 
MOWING: Spring is upon us. If you would like to help with mowing the church yard this year, contact Mark Selby or Cal Lundberg. Thanks, Board of Properties.

APRIL SHOWERS: In honor of the gift of new life God bestows on His people, we are celebrating with April Showers, both in our community and congregation.
1. Bring baby supplies to the church to support Aggie’s Closet and the life affirming work at Guiding Star pregnancy center in Marshalltown. (Suggested donations: Diapers, wipes, onesies, diaper cream, bottles, pacifiers, teethers, baby wash, etc)
2. Write a note of encouragement to one of the new and expecting moms in our congregation and place it in the corresponding manila envelope. If you would like to write a note to another mom in the congregation, make sure it is labeled and it will be delivered to them!

CCA FOOD PANTRY: The CCA Food Pantry is currently serving 13+ families in the PEACH (Palmyra, Easter Lake, Avon Lake, Carlisle, Hartford) area. The food pantry is open on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month and anyone in the PEACH area can fill 2-4 bags with food, plus paper goods and bathroom items. Holy Cross has been the location for the CCA food pantry since the 1980's. Check the list posted on the Food Pantry door for immediate donation needs. Please ask Kathy Dee if there are any questions or for opportunities to get involved.

IOWA MARCH FOR LIFE: On June 20, 2026 we will gather at Trinity Lutheran Church in Des Moines for a time of prayer, encouragement, and fellowship before heading to the State Capitol for the rally at noon and the march at 1:00 p.m. Please RSVP by emailing pastorckroonblawd@gmail.com with the number of people in your household who plan to attend so that adequate lunch preparations can be made.

BOOK OF 2 TIMOTHY BIBLE STUDY: The Word of the Lord Endures Forever is a daily 15-minute verse-by-verse Bible study produced by Lutheran Public Radio in Collinsville, IL and hosted by LCMS Pastor Will Weedon. Pastor Weedon recently started a study on the Book of 2 Timothy. You can listen on-demand at thewordendures.org.

"But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope.  For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep."  (1 Thessalonians 4:13-14)

Shirley Havens fell asleep in Christ on Sunday, April 12. The funeral service for Shirley will be held at Holy Cross on Saturday, April, 18 at 2:00 pm. A reception will follow the graveside service. Visitation will be Friday evening from 4:00 to 8:00 pm.

Everyone is encouraged to attend and hear the Good News of our risen Savior which give us hope for those who have fallen asleep in Him.  
 
Christ is risen! He is risen, indeed!  Alleluia!
Obituary at Peterson Funeral Services

Food pantry sorting has been moved to Sunday 12:30pm-4pm. Come and go as you are able.

The Lego Extravaganza, originally scheduled for this Friday the 17th, will be moved to a later date. Watch the announcements for new details. 

 SERVING FELLOWSHIP NEXT WEEK: C. Dee & A. Rees

COMING UP:
Today – 12pm Church Council
Friday – Card night; Lego Extravaganza
Saturday – Food pantry sorting
 
CONTRACT RUMMY ANYONE? We have Fellowship this coming Friday beginning at 6 p.m. Enjoy an exciting game of Contract Rummy. Bring a snack or two to share with the group
 
MOWING: Spring is upon us. If you would like to help with mowing the church yard this year, contact Mark Selby or Cal Lundberg. Thanks, Board of Properties.

APRIL SHOWERS: In honor of the gift of new life God bestows on His people, we are celebrating with April Showers, both in our community and congregation.
1. Bring baby supplies to the church to support Aggie’s Closet and the life affirming work at Guiding Star pregnancy center in Marshalltown. (Suggested donations: Diapers, wipes, onesies, diaper cream, bottles, pacifiers, teethers, baby wash, etc)
2. Write a note of encouragement to one of the new and expecting moms in our congregation and place it in the corresponding manila envelope. If you would like to write a note to another mom in the congregation, make sure it is labeled and it will be delivered to them!

HOMESCHOOL CONFERENCE: The Confessional Lutheran Homeschool League at Holy Cross is hosting our fifth annual homeschool conference on Saturday, May 9, 2026, 8:30 a.m. – 4:15 p.m. The conference, We All Believe in One True God, is dedicated to supporting current homeschoolers, equipping future homeschoolers, and encouraging those considering homeschooling from a confessional Lutheran perspective. Find additional information and registration on our website:  holycrosscarlisle.org.

CCA FOOD PANTRY: The CCA Food Pantry is currently serving 13+ families in the PEACH (Palmyra, Easter Lake, Avon Lake, Carlisle, Hartford) area. The food pantry is open on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month and anyone in the PEACH area can fill 2-4 bags with food, plus paper goods and bathroom items. Holy Cross has been the location for the CCA food pantry since the 1980's. Check the list posted on the Food Pantry door for immediate donation needs. Please ask Kathy Dee if there are any questions or for opportunities to get involved.

THIS SATURDAY, April 18, from 1:30-4:30pm is the annual food sorting for the CCA Food Pantry. The Boy Scouts canvas the towns in the PEACH area for food donations and a group of Holy Cross (and other family and friend) volunteers spend a few hours sorting the food by date and getting it organized on the shelves to serve the community for the next year. We appreciate everyone who has helped in the past and look forward to doing it again this year. All ages are welcome! Invite friends and family to come! Feel free to come and go as you are able. Please ask Kathy Dee if there are any questions.

EXPERT GUESTS, EXPANSIVE TOPICS, EXTOLLING CHRIST: Issues, Etc. is a podcast and radio talk show produced by Lutheran Public Radio in Collinsville, IL and hosted by LCMS Pastor Todd Wilken. Recent teachings include: The Easter Hymn “The Day of Resurrection;” Worship, Adiaphora & the Lutheran Confessions; First-Century Jewish Historian Josephus on Jesus of Nazareth; Restoring Faith, Freedom & Family; and more. You can listen at your convenience at issuesetc.org.

As we move from Holy Week to the celebration of our Lord’s resurrection from the dead, rejoice in all your Lord accomplished on the cross for the sake of your salvation, from a sermon by Johann Gerhard on the Suffering and Death of Our Lord Jesus Christ:

Our Easter/Passover Lamb is Christ, who also died on the tree, and shed His blood so that we may be safe from the hellish angel of death.  Jonah was in the belly of the whale-fish for three days and for three nights. Christ applies Jonah’s experience to Himself, and teaches that it too, was a type of His death.  In conclusion, all sacrifices of the Old Testament, which were first slaughtered, pointed to the death of Christ.  Secondly, Christ chose to die in such a way for our benefit and for our sake, and for many reasons. For since He took our sins upon Himself, He therefore also had to take upon Himself the punishment for our sins, namely death, for sin’s wage is death, so that thereby a satisfaction could take place for the righteousness of God, since God the Lord had said to man in Genesis 2, “The day you eat from the forbidden fruit, you will die.” This command of God could not be broken. Accordingly, we should have died the eternal death; thus Christ had to give Himself into death for us as St. Paul says, “Christ gave Himself up for the sake of our sin,” (Rom. 4) and in Hebrews 9, “So it is set for man to die one time, but after that the Judgement: Thus Christ offered Himself up one time to take away many sins.” In Matthew 26, Christ says that He sheds His blood for the forgiveness of sins, and once again in Mark 10, that “He gives His life as a ransom for many.”   (An Explanation of the History of the Suffering and Death of Our Lord Jesus Christ; Gerhard, Johann, Repristination Press, 1999, p. 287.)

Prayer :  O Lord Jesus Christ, may Your thirst which you endured on the cross quench the thirst of my soul and protect me through Your atoning sacrifice, which You accomplished on the cross, may it be a comfort to my soul; give me grace that my soul thirst for You, the Fountain of Life; and, grant that I may commend my soul into Your hands at the hour of death.  Amen.

HOLY WEEK SERVICES:
Tues 6:30pm – Devotion & Table Talk
Wed 9:30am – Chapel for Wed of Holy Week
6:30pm - Private Confession & Absolution
Thurs 11am & 6:30pm - Maundy Thursday Divine Service
Fri 11am & 6:30pm – Good Friday service
Sat 6:30pm – Easter Vigil
Sun 7:00am - Sunrise Matins
8:00am - Breakfast
9:00am - Easter Divine Service

PASTOR WILL BE ON VACATION: the week following Easter (April 6-11). No Table Talk or Wednesday Bible studies. Confirmation and choir are moved to 6:30pm.
 
LOST AND FOUND: Please take a look at the lost & found table. Items will be removed after today.
 
SPRING CLEANING: Thank you to those who helped with spring cleaning so far! If you were unable to attend but would still like to help, you can sign up for a task and complete it on your own.

MOWING: Spring is upon us. If you would like to help with mowing the church yard this year, contact Mark Selby or Cal Lundberg. Thanks, Board of Properties.
 
ALTAR FLOWERS: The Altar Guild would like to put out fresh flower arrangements for special feast days in the church. Mark "Altar Flowers" in the memo line of your check or donate online Serve>Give>Vanco>Altar Flowers. The signup sheet is in the narthex.
 
4TH FUNNEL CAKE STAND: The Ladies Guild is trying to plan for the funnel cake stand over the 4th of July. If you would be able to help, please indicate that on the sign-up sheet in the narthex.
 
SCHOLARSHIPS: There are a few scholarship opportunities for LCMS high school seniors. See the posters on the bulletin board for details on each one.
 
HOMESCHOOL CONFERENCE: The Confessional Lutheran Homeschool League at Holy Cross is hosting our fifth annual homeschool conference on Saturday, May 9, 2026, 8:30 a.m. – 4:15 p.m. The conference, We All Believe in One True God, is dedicated to supporting current homeschoolers, equipping future homeschoolers, and encouraging those considering homeschooling from a confessional Lutheran perspective. Find additional information and registration on our website.
 
PODCAST PROGRAMMING FOR HOLY WEEK: Issues, Etc. is a podcast produced by Lutheran Public Radio in Collinsville, IL and hosted by LCMS Pastor Todd Wilken. This week’s teachings include: Judas, the Lord’s Supper & Closed Communion, The Holy Week Hymns “The Royal Banners Forward Go,” “Sing My Tongue the Glorious Battle” “O Sacred Head Now Wounded” and more. You can listen at your convenience at issuesetc.org.

SERVING FELLOWSHIP NEXT WEEK: C. Wedemeyer & A. Harper

COMING UP:
Sat 8-9am Private Confession & Absolution
1-4pm – Board game day

BOARD GAME DAY: The Ladies’ Guild is hosting a board game day this Saturday from 1-4pm. This event is for all congregation members of all ages! Some games will be provided – just show up and enjoy the fun! Also keep an eye out for other Ladies’ Guild sponsored events like a Lego Extravaganza and April Showers!

LOST AND FOUND: Please take a look at the lost & found table. Items will be removed after next Sunday, March 29th.

SPRING CLEANING: Thank you to those who helped with spring cleaning this weekend! If you were unable to attend but would still like to help, you can sign up for a task and complete it on your own before April.

EASTER BREAKFAST: Follow the link or sign up on the sheet in the narthex to volunteer for Easter breakfast. We are looking for individuals to help decorate, set up, clean up, or bring food.

ALTAR FLOWERS: The Altar Guild would like to put out fresh flower arrangements for special feast days in the church. Mark "Altar Flowers" in the memo line of your check or donate online Serve>Give>Vanco>Altar Flowers. The signup sheet is in the narthex.

4TH FUNNEL CAKE STAND: The Ladies Guild is trying to plan for the funnel cake stand over the 4th of July. If you would be able to help, please indicate that on the sign-up sheet in the narthex.

THRIVENT CHOICE DOLLARS FOR 2025: will be expiring soon! If you are a Thrivent member, you may be eligible to participate and direct Thrivent Choice Dollars to your favorite ministry. Go to www.thrivent.com/thriventchoice or call 800-847-4836 before March 31 and say, “Thrivent Choice.”

SCHOLARSHIPS: There are a few scholarship opportunities for LCMS high school seniors. See the posters on the bulletin board for details on each one.

MISSION TRIP SUPPORT: The same weekend of April 2024, when IDW was hit by a massive storm front, another EF3 tornado ripped through Sulphur, OK, hometown of DCE Jonathon Bailey of Redeemer, Sioux City. It flattened the entire east side of town and sadly took the life of one individual. At this time, the community of Sulphur is still trying to rebuild! The people who could afford to repair their homes or had insurance have already completed those repairs. But some cannot afford to purchase materials or hire people to help. Redeemer Lutheran Church of Sioux City will be taking a group of 25 youth and adults on a mission trip in June of this year and is trying to raise $18,000 to cover travel expenses as well as materials for the people who need help. If you choose to support this project, please send donations by May 31st to the district office – c/o Julie Mann memo “OK Mission Trip”. Thank you.

EQUIPPING THE PRIESTHOOD OF ALL BELIEVERS: Issues, Etc. is a podcast and radio talk show produced by Lutheran Public Radio in Collinsville, IL and hosted by LCMS Pastor Todd Wilken. Recent topics include: Speaking Truth to Power, The 98th Academy Awards, Leisure & Love of Neighbor, Philippians 4:8: “Think on These Things,” Reaching Out to Gen Z Woman and more. You can listen on-demand at issuesetc.org.

SERVING FELLOWSHIP NEXT WEEK: S. Schumacher & K. Palma

COMING UP:
Fri 6pm – Card Night
Sat 8am – Men’s Bible study & breakfast
9:30am – Meals for Moms
10am – Spring cleaning
4-5pm – Private Confession & Absolution
28th 1-4pm – Board game day

CONTRACT RUMMY ANYONE?  We have Fellowship this coming Friday beginning at 6 p.m.  Enjoy an exciting game of Contract Rummy.  Bring a snack or two to share with the group.

MEN OF HOLY CROSS: Men young and old: you have the opportunity to gather around God’s Word during this Lenten season. Join the study and breakfast this Saturday!

SPRING CLEANING: is this Saturday, March 21st at 10am. If you are unable to attend at that time, you can sign up for a task and complete it on your own before April.

MEALS FOR MOMS: We have several Holy Cross ladies who are expecting babies in the next few months. Meet this Saturday, March 21, at the parsonage at 9:30 a.m. to help prepare Meals for Moms. This is open to all ladies, although pregnant women and moms with littles are not expected to attend. All food and supplies will be provided... just bring an apron. Please let us know if you plan to attend as we may move from the parsonage to church if we have a large group.  Questions... ask Kristen Ikenberry or Ceci Johnson.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: Allison, the office secretary, is looking for some volunteers to help with folding bulletins, printing announcements, and other small tasks while she is home with a newborn. A sign-up sheet is in the narthex. See Allison if you have questions.

LOST AND FOUND: Please take a look at the lost & found table. Items will be removed after March 29th.

BOARD GAME DAY: The Ladies’ Guild is hosting a board game day on Sunday, March 28th from 1-4pm. This event is for all congregation members of all ages! Some games will be provided – just show up and enjoy the fun!

ALTAR FLOWERS: The Altar Guild would like to put out fresh flower arrangements for special feast days in the church. Mark "Altar Flowers" in the memo line of your check or donate online Serve>Give>Vanco>Altar Flowers. The signup sheet is in the narthex.

THRIVENT CHOICE DOLLARS FOR 2025: will be expiring soon! If you are a Thrivent member, you may be eligible to participate and direct Thrivent Choice Dollars to your favorite ministry. Go to www.thrivent.com/thriventchoice or call 800-847-4836 before March 31 and say, “Thrivent Choice.”

EXPLAINING LUTHERANISM TO NON-LUTHERANS: Issues, Etc. is a radio talk show produced by Lutheran Public Radio in Collinsville, IL and hosted by LCMS Pastor Todd Wilken. You can listen to a series of interviews with Dr. Jordan Cooper, author of the new book “Lutheranism for Non-Lutherans” at issuesetc.org/nonlutherans.

SERVING FELLOWSHIP NEXT WEEK: K. Dee & K. Feldt

COMING UP:
Today – Church Council meeting
Sat 4-5pm – Individual Confession & Absolution

MEN OF HOLY CROSS: Men young and old: you have the opportunity to gather around God’s Word during this Lenten season. Join the study and breakfast on March 21st!

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: Allison, the office secretary, is looking for some volunteers to help with folding bulletins, printing announcements, and other small tasks while she is home with a newborn. A sign-up sheet is in the narthex. See Allison if you have questions.

ALTAR FLOWERS: The Altar Guild would like to put out fresh flower arrangements for special feast days in the church. Mark "Altar Flowers" in the memo line of your check or donate online Serve>Give>Vanco>Altar Flowers. The signup sheet is in the narthex.

REMINDER: If you are the last one out of the church building, please turn out the lights and make sure the doors are locked. Thanks!

THRIVENT CHOICE DOLLARS FOR 2025: will be expiring soon! If you are a Thrivent member, you may be eligible to participate and direct Thrivent Choice Dollars to your favorite ministry. Go to www.thrivent.com/thriventchoice or call 800-847-4836 before March 31 and say, “Thrivent Choice.”

IOWA MARCH FOR LIFE: is June 20, 2026. Begin at Trinity Lutheran Church in Des Moines for a time of prayer, encouragement, and fellowship before heading to the State Capitol for the rally at noon and the march at 1:00 p.m. Please RSVP by completing the online form using the QR code or emailing pastorckroonblawd@gmail.com with the number of people in your household who plan to attend so that adequate lunch preparations can be made.

MISSION TRIP SUPPORT: The same weekend of April 2024, when IDW was hit by a massive storm front, another EF3 tornado ripped through Sulphur, OK, hometown of DCE Jonathon Bailey of Redeemer, Sioux City. It flattened the entire east side of town and sadly took the life of one individual. At this time, the community of Sulphur is still trying to rebuild! The people who could afford to repair their homes or had insurance have already completed those repairs. But some cannot afford to purchase materials or hire people to help. Redeemer Lutheran Church of Sioux City will be taking a group of 25 youth and adults on a mission trip in June of this year and is trying to raise $18,000 to cover travel expenses as well as materials for the people who need help. If you choose to support this project, please send donations by May 31st to the district office – c/o Julie Mann memo “OK Mission Trip”. Thank you.

KARAOKE FOR CHRISTIAN HYMNS: You can sing hymns like “The Angel Gabriel,” “Silent Night,” “This Joyful Eastertide,” “The Day of Resurrection,” “Come Holy Ghost, Creator Blest” and more.  Lutheran Public Radio has produced YouTube videos of more than 55 hymns featuring the Lutheran Public Radio Choir.  Sing along at lutheranpublicradio.org/karaoke.

SERVING FELLOWSHIP NEXT WEEK: C. Verage & K. Ikenberry

COMING UP:
Thurs 9:30am – Study group in Casey
Sat 8am – Men’s Bible study & breakfast
Sat 9:30am – Ladies’ Guild planning meeting
Sat 4-5pm – Individual Confession & Absolution

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS: starts on Sunday, March 8th. Set your clocks forward one hour this Saturday evening.

MEN OF HOLY CROSS: Men young and old: you have the opportunity to gather around God’s Word during this Lenten season. Join the study and breakfast on March 7th, 21st, or both!

LADIES OF HOLY CROSS: Please join us this Saturday at 9:30am! Our meeting includes an opening devotion, snacks, and an activity. We will also be planning exciting events like the Easter breakfast, maybe a tea party, board game day, or Lego day.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: Allison, the office secretary, is looking for some volunteers to help with folding bulletins, printing announcements, and other small tasks while she is home with a newborn. A sign-up sheet is in the narthex. See Allison if you have questions.

ALTAR FLOWERS: The Altar Guild would like to put out fresh flower arrangements for special feast days in the church. Mark "Altar Flowers" in the memo line of your check or donate online Serve>Give>Vanco>Altar Flowers. The signup sheet is in the narthex.

REMINDER: If you are the last one out of the church building, please turn out the lights and make sure the doors are locked. Thanks!

THRIVENT CHOICE DOLLARS FOR 2025: will be expiring soon! If you are a Thrivent member, you may be eligible to participate and direct Thrivent Choice Dollars to your favorite ministry. Go to www.thrivent.com/thriventchoice or call 800-847-4836 before March 31 and say, “Thrivent Choice.”

HOMESCHOOL CONFERENCE: The Confessional Lutheran Homeschool League at Holy Cross is hosting our fifth annual homeschool conference on Saturday, May 9, 2026, 8:30 a.m. – 4:15 p.m. The conference, We All Believe in One True God, is dedicated to supporting current homeschoolers, equipping future homeschoolers, and encouraging those considering homeschooling from a confessional Lutheran perspective. Find additional information here.

BOOK OF PROVERBS BIBLE STUDY: The Word of the Lord Endures Forever is a daily 15-minute verse-by-verse Bible study produced by Lutheran Public Radio in Collinsville, IL and hosted by LCMS Pastor Will Weedon.  Pastor Weedon recently started a study on the Book of Proverbs:11-20. You can listen at your convenience at thewordendures.org.